“We stand with all those demanding an end to human rights abuses, working to protect vulnerable and marginalized communities, and safeguarding fundamental freedoms for the Libyan people,” declared U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield at the Security Council.
“Colleagues let’s be clear: the status quo in Libya, especially with regards to the political solution, is unsustainable. ... We need a new political process in Libya, as difficult as that might seem. And we continue to believe the UN is the best placed international actor to lead that process. We call on the entire international community to stand behind these UN-led efforts.”
Real progress on the political future of Libya requires leaders to make tough compromises on contentious issues, stressed Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield:
“But here’s what we know: that kind of compromise is possible. The resolution of the Central Bank crisis demonstrated that. Consensus-based solutions, brought about through dialogue, are not out of reach – they are essential.”
Libyan authorities have asked the Security Council to strengthen coordination and information sharing among Libyan security forces, as well as Libya’s counterterrorism and border security capabilities.
More broadly, Libya’s long-term economic stability hinges on the apolitical nature and integrity of key economic institutions, including the Central Bank of Libya, the National Oil Corporation, and the Audit Bureau. Effective governance is key to the future of Libya and to people’s faith in the institutions of their country.
Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield expressed concern over reports of transfers of military equipment in flagrant violation of the UN arms embargo, including Russian naval vessels unloading military materiel at Tobruk port.
“We are also deeply concerned by the illicit exports of petroleum and petroleum products, which benefit criminal organizations at the expense of the Libyan people. It’s critical that the Panel [of Experts] remains focused on this issue, particularly regarding information on those who are benefitting from this trafficking.”
The United States remains committed to using sanctions to deter threats to peace and stability in Libya.
“That peace, and that stability, have eluded Libya for far too long, but change is always within reach,” said Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield. She urged the Security Council to do “everything possible to support the Libyan people, as they write a better future for themselves.”
